Freebie tricks (Viruses )

Viruses
Free software infected with viruses and trojans. You will need a good antivirus and make sure you have always the latest updates. Only download files from respected sources and you should be just fine. You can get some free stuff on our website. We try to test all freebies first.

Server security holes
If you run a website, be aware of any holes that may expose you to hacking. A security hole can make someone else take control of your website and use it for illegal purposes and guess what... you will face the consequences. Avoid as much as possible opensource software, specially if it's not updated for a long time.

Trial subscriptions
Those are freebies that aren't really freebies. They usually ask for your financial informations in order to get access to that particular freebie. Open your eyes wide when you enter such informations... every respectable website should have a security certificate on that page. Check it and see if the certificate is genuine. Do not enter paypal details on pages outside www.paypal.com, do not enter moneybookers details on pages outside www.moneybookers.com. Check the domain and if you spot something wrong get out of there and report them.

Shipping and handling
A freebie that require you to pay for shipping and handling isn't really free anymore, is it? That don't mean is not worth it... I would pay shipping and handling for a free plasma TV. But this can also be a trick... watch the domains that ask for credit card details the same way as for trial subscriptions. If anything looks suspicious, do not enter any financial details.

Email
When you try to access freebie directories, you still have to register and provide them with your email address. Look for privacy policy... some websites will sign you up for tones of spam newsletter and some will even sell your email address. An active email address is worth from 0,05$ up to 5$ on the black market. You all know what i mean... pharma stores that spawn everywhere, dating websites that send you 5-6 emails a day and so on.

The bottom line is that you are your best antivirus. Just keep your eyes open and don't click any link that pops in front of your eyes. Read, think and analyze everything.

in Security